European nights at Anfield are legendary and Owen is better placed than most to know what impact the home support can have on the players.

Only Steven Gerrard can better the former England striker’s record of 22 European goals for the Merseysiders and Owen insists it’s the opening group match is always vital.

“I wouldn’t be backing even Barcelona or Real Madrid in a one-off game at Anfield because it’s a real fortress - especially in Europe the atmosphere is great and the players will feed off that.

“It’s a really important game and to start with a win would set them up very nicely because you’d back them to pick up maximum points at home, and then they might only need one good result away from home.

“It’ll be a good atmosphere because it’s against decent opposition so the fans will definitely be up for it,” said Owen.

Liverpool have reached the Champions League group stage for just the second time in the last ten seasons and the importance of a good showing in the tournament has not been lost on Owen.

The re-worked seeding system has led to several mouth-watering ties between some of Europe’s elite, Barcelona’s clash with Juventus for example, yet Owen is adamant Liverpool will not mind avoiding the glamour ties.

The former Real Madrid forward added: “I think Liverpool, both the club and fans, would be pleased with the draw.

“Having a good game against one of the big European teams can come later in the tournament, it’s just about getting as far as you can.

“No matter what round it is, I think you always want an easy as possible passage. And considering Liverpool were in pot three I think everyone connected with the club will be delighted with the draw.

“I was at the Arsenal game a few weeks ago and it was one of the best performances you’re likely to see. Yes, the Gunners were poor, but how much credit do you give Liverpool and how much do you slam Wenger’s team?

“I thought Liverpool were irresistible on the day and if they can get to that level on a regular basis they’ll be very hard to play against this season and virtually impossible to stop at Anfield.”

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Arsene Wenger speaks to Des Kelly after Arsenal's goalless draw with West Ham at the London ...

Arsene Wenger speaks to Des Kelly after Arsenal's goalless draw with West Ham at the London Stadium and blames fatigue a...

Arsene Wenger speaks to Des Kelly after Arsenal's goalless draw with West Ham at the London St...

Arsene Wenger speaks to Des Kelly after Arsenal's goalless draw with West Ham at the London Stadium and blames fatigue after a three day turnaround from their last Premier League match, for their inability to break the Hammers down.

Arsene Wenger speaks to Des Kelly after Arsenal's goalless draw with West Ham at the London Stadium and blames fatigue after a three day turnaround from their last Premier League match, for their inability to break the Hammers down.

Arsene Wenger speaks to Des Kelly after Arsenal's goalless draw with West Ham at the London Stadium and blames fatigue after a three day turnaround from their last Premier League match, for their inability to break the Hammers down.